WORK on a new pedestrian and cycle link between Taunton Railway Station and the town centre is underway.

The route – the northern section of the Firepool Boulevard – will run from the newly-revamped station, past the new Innovation Centre, connecting Trenchard Way to Canal Road.

As well as space for walkers and cyclists, the route will feature seating and green spaces/rain gardens for people to stop and relax.

Funded by a Government grant, Somerset Council said the boulevard will provide a safe, green throughfare for people travelling from the north of the town towards the centre, including for cricket fans heading for the Somerset County Cricket Ground.

“It promises to transform the way residents can travel into town, encouraging people out of cars and onto feet and bikes, with all the health and environmental benefits that come with it,” a spokesperson said.

“In doing so it will contribute towards the Taunton Vision which aims to make the town a more vibrant, attractive and enjoyable place to visit, work and shop.

“The boulevard plans are part of the twice consulted on Firepool masterplan, developed after Somerset West and Taunton Council was awarded government funding.”

The work is part of a £13.96m project that will eventually create a 1.5km-long cycling and walking link from the railway station to Vivary Park.

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Cllr Ros Wyke, lead member for economic development, planning & assets, said: “This should be a real game-changer for the way that people get around our county town, be it local residents or visitors arriving by train and bus.

“Investment like this is vitally important to Taunton’s vibrant future so we’re thrilled to see this ambitious scheme underway.

“It’s part of a bigger picture which is about creating a cleaner, greener, flourishing town centre which will benefit everyone, including businesses.”

Contractor, Milestone, has started groundworks on the northern section of the boulevard and the scheme is expected to be completed before the end of the year.

The development will use the same York stone paving used at the recent station car park development, continuing down the Boulevard to the Riverside.

Contracts for the delivery of the southern section of the boulevard, from the Riverside to Vivary Park, are due to be awarded later this summer.